Much of this could be addressed if we would leave our fear of no new taxes at the door. Fees on excess water useage and excess waste (at the risk of sounding liberal it would promote recycling too) are examples of ideas that would discourage multiple families from living together. At a minimum it would mean that families like frustrated mentions aren’t subsidizing them.

Here’s another analogy; amidst all of the second amendment speakers Monday, Joe Johnson reminded everyone of their civic responsibility to remove the snow from their sidewalk. He’s close to 80 and shovels his sidewalk. Yet, as I drive the City I would assert 1/3 to 1/2 of the sidewalks frequently remain snow packed. There’s an ordinance to remove snow. It’s one of the many we choose not to enforce. The result, kids walk to school or bus stops in the street.

I agree, it’s time for some “heavy handed enforcement”. We need to get rid of the blight infested properties now.

The vote to refer Andy’s resolution back to staff was NOT a rejection of his resolution, it was simply reflected a need to clarify what was meant by “implement a proactive program.” Some members were concerned it might implicitly endorse a heavy handed approach by city staff. Some members (me) were concerned it might implicitly endorse a big increase in inspection staff and attendance increase in taxes. We all just wanted to understand exactly what we are voting to approve. If you are willing to vote without knowing what you are voting for, then you deserve just what you get.

I’ve said it before and I’ll restate my assessment of Johnathan Way - Status Quo aka Rubberstamp Man. …Mr Way sir, you’re No Jackson Miller. That fact now more than ever, is abundantly clear!

Last nights Council action(or lack there of) relegates the initiative for proactive code enforcement regarding defined issues such as: unmaintained properties, appearance standards, neighborhood preservation and existing zoning laws.

Seems as if the Council ‘majority’ perfers to simply read about the blight/issues found within our city rather than take appropriate action.

Blight - Something that impairs growth, withers hopes and ambitions, or impedes progress and prosperity.

I guess Steve Smith was for the motion, before he was against it. Quite Kerryesque don’t you think?

Maybe the Mayor gets a pass from you, but not from me. This “study” is the equivilant of a non-binding resolution. Harrover’s initiative is needed in the City. A few trashy homes and commercial buildings can screw up the character of entire neighborhoods.

The city cannot afford to be reactive any more. That is how small problems turn into big ones. GTS is a great example. The City had a handle on it, when it was reacting to the deterioration that occurred during the early 90’s, but had to expend terrific resources to deal with the problem. Now the neighborhood is backsliding, and we’ll have to do it all over again.

Smith has got to go. Parrish is quickly approaching the same status. Way? He wasn’t elected, but I am sure that if the trend continues, he won’t make it through the next convention.

The biggest disappointment is the Mayor. At a time where decisive leadership and action is needed, he chose to maintain the status quo. UNACCEPTABLE.